RADHA AND KRISHNA INTERTWINE DURING HOLI

Acquired 1982

Minor surface abrasions visible at bottom of image. Otherwise in very good condition. Borders possibly slightly trimmed. Verso: Minor stains with reinforced areas at edges. Old inscription in ink and pencil
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A joyful Radha throws handfuls of red powder - red stains everywhere - a handmaiden gets some in her eye as another taps a colorful rounded drum.  Pairs of geese swim serenely in the river beyond.

Possibly a version of Vasant Ragini.  Krishna and Radha hold each other close during Holi - the festival celebrating the season of Spring and the promise of fertility.  Standing icon-like on a golden jeweled and velvet plinth they seem to intertwine and become as one.  A verdant leafy tree forming a green canopy, spreading out above them.  With black inner and red outer borders with white ruled lines.

The inclusion of the maiden beating the drum is interesting.  The drum beat may be seen as an archetypal element implying the rhythmic progression of the seasons.  Another somewhat earlier Rajasthani painting, from Sirohi depicting Vasant Ragini, shows a related composition with the handmaiden playing a nearly identical yellow and red-ringed hand-drum; see Sherman Lee, Rajput Painting, New York, 1960, p. 55, cat 53.